Screenshots of Origin

Origin Editor's Review

A New Name That's Good for New EA Games

If you wondered where EA Download Manager ahd disappeared to, you'll be happy to know that it is now known as Origin.

When you are looking for an EA game then Origin should be your first stop, as it acts as a catalogue and store for their new titles. Sadly, older games are not always available, which is a bit of a missed mark on EAs part.

If you are looking for deals you might want to go elsewhere, as pricing is usually the same as in retail stores, although there are occasionally bargains to be found.

In terms of functionality, a friends list is present for online play. When you purchase a game, it downloads and installs on your hard-drive, ready for play. One great feature is the ablity to play streaming demos in your web browser through the GaiKai service, so you can try before you buy.

Pro's: Streaming demo play is very convenient. Easy to use. Good library for new EA games.

Con's: Only EA games are available. Older games not available. Better deals can sometimes be found elsewhere.

Conclusion: If you only care about finding EA games then Origin is all you could wish for. While streaming demos are very convenient, Origin is far from a one-stop shop, even for EA's catalogue, as older games are not always available. Origin is certainly good at what it does, but doesn't do enough to be the only game manager you will ever need.

Origin Publisher's Description

Origin, the former EA Download Manager, is where you go to find the best that EA has to offer. The hottest games. Exclusive content. Early access. And more.

Your EA account is now called an Origin Account. The EA Download Manager is also now called Origin.

Origin lets you purchase and play your favorite EA games - any time and any place you...

What's New in Version 8.6.0.357 of Origin

* Fixed several issues with the DLC download system, including one that was causing users to time out before completion.
* Added hovercards to the Origin friends list. You can now mouse over a friend’s name to pop up their real name. Users who have hidden their real names will remain hidden.
* Added release dates to all DLC available for pre-order.Show more

* Fixed several issues that were causing Origin to crash.
* Reduced the client’s CPU load.